The Yusaku Blue #2 Nakiri 180mm is another strong offering from Kousuke Muneishi, a talented young 3rd-generation blacksmith from Tosa, Japan. His grandfather founded Muneishi Cutlery Mfg in 1955 producing farming and forestry tools, and the family continues that tradition today under his father’s management using primarily Aogami #2 steel. Kousuke is now expanding into kitchen cutlery, and we’ve been very impressed with his early work and see a lot of promise in his future.
The Yusaku name reflects both the maker and his craft—“Saku” meaning work, and “Yu/Suke” referencing Kousuke himself. These knives represent a thoughtful blend of tradition and emerging skill, offering excellent performance at a very approachable price point.
This 180mm nakiri is forged from Aogami #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. The kurouchi finish preserves the forged character of the blade, while the grind is well executed and thin behind the edge for smooth, efficient vegetable prep. The flat profile gives you excellent board contact for clean, precise cuts, making this a great choice for both home cooks and professionals. It’s paired with a burnt urushi octagonal handle that provides a comfortable grip and a clean, traditional look.
Care Instructions: This knife has a reactive carbon steel edge. Hand wash and dry immediately after use. Do not leave wet or soak. Avoid cutting hard or frozen foods. A patina will develop over time, which is normal and helps protect the steel.
Brand: Yusaku Blacksmith: Kousuke Muneishi Location: Tosa, Japan Construction: San Mai / Hammer Forged Edge Steel: Aogami #2 (Blue Paper Steel) Cladding: Soft Iron Finish: Kurouchi Edge Grind: Even (See Choil Photo) Weight: 6.4 oz (182 g) Blade Length: 181 mm Total Length: 326 mm Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm Blade Height: 47 mm Handle: Burnt Urushi Octagonal
The Yusaku name reflects both the maker and his craft—“Saku” meaning work, and “Yu/Suke” referencing Kousuke himself. These knives represent a thoughtful blend of tradition and emerging skill, offering excellent performance at a very approachable price point.
This 180mm nakiri is forged from Aogami #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. The kurouchi finish preserves the forged character of the blade, while the grind is well executed and thin behind the edge for smooth, efficient vegetable prep. The flat profile gives you excellent board contact for clean, precise cuts, making this a great choice for both home cooks and professionals. It’s paired with a burnt urushi octagonal handle that provides a comfortable grip and a clean, traditional look.
Care Instructions: This knife has a reactive carbon steel edge. Hand wash and dry immediately after use. Do not leave wet or soak. Avoid cutting hard or frozen foods. A patina will develop over time, which is normal and helps protect the steel.
Reviews
2 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Incredible knfe. YuSaku blue NakiriPosted By: Nikolai
37 people found this review helpful
Great Knife! The 180 length is my favorite. The knife feels like an old friend. Blade is medium weight- I think the metal is a little forgiving, not brittle feeling like AS. Blade came sharp and I have yet to touch it. Nice fit and finish- fantastic custom handle. So far it seems effortless around vegetables in my kitchen. Criticism- blade not quite straight in Handle. Slight wave in blade. I'm totally OCD yet these defects no longer detract from the knife. Would buy another from this maker if the price was right!
37 people found this review helpful
Great Knife! The 180 length is my favorite. The knife feels like an old friend. Blade is medium weight- I think the metal is a little forgiving, not brittle feeling like AS. Blade came sharp and I have yet to touch it. Nice fit and finish- fantastic custom handle. So far it seems effortless around vegetables in my kitchen. Criticism- blade not quite straight in Handle. Slight wave in blade. I'm totally OCD yet these defects no longer detract from the knife. Would buy another from this maker if the price was right!
